Terror groups taking advantage of volatile Hyderabad

Political instability and hate speeches are worsening the situation in Andhra Pradesh, reports Vicky Nanjappa

Political chaos, a separatist movement, communal speeches and now a terror attack.

Andhra Pradesh and Hyderabad city in particular has never been so volatile, and it appears the situation may only worsen in the days to come.

Many in Hyderabad are worried about the disruption of peace caused by Owaisi’s hate speech, provocative speeches by Hindu leaders, terror attacks and the political instability in the region.

G V L N Rao, an ardent observer of Andhra Pradesh politics, says that Hyderabad has been a very volatile spot. “There are so many burning issues in Andhra Pradesh which has given a fillip to terror groups to take advantage of the situation,” he says.

While terrorism has raised it ugly head, the bigger worry is the political situation. “There have been many attempts in the past to create disturbances, but now with the atmosphere so communally charged up terror groups will want to take advantage of the situation,” Rao added.

While the communal card is being played at the political level, there is still communal harmony among the people, for now. But the situation may take a turn for the worse if political leaders continue to make hate speeches. Muslim leaders in Hyderabad anticipate trouble if there is a witch-hunt.

The Civil Liberties Monitoring Committee, which has fought for the cause of Muslims falsely accused in the 2007 Mecca Masjid blast, has said that that a fair investigation is the need of the hour.

The present political situation in Andhra Pradesh is grim. Such incidents have been witnessed earlier when the ruling Congress party has been in trouble, and in Andhra Pradesh it is facing its worst days. The real issues are being diverted and the Telangana movement in particular has suffered a set back.

The convenor of the Civil Liberties Monitoring Committee Latheef Khan says that the incident is being given a communal colour. “There is no hatred among the people following the communal speeches. But some are trying to take advantage of the situation,” says Khan.